In hard times, the American dream can become a nightmare for new immigrants. Thankfully, French-speaking newcomers to New York have Carrefour, an organization founded in 2007 by Father Jacques Lapointe, a Franciscan priest from Canada. Carrefour helps recently-arrived Francophones who are faced with linguistic, legal, social and economic hardships.
As New York’s French-speaking population has boomed and immigrants from war-torn regions of Africa have hit the local streets, Carrefour has developed a wide range of programs. Individuals and families can get help with unraveling immigration issues, finding housing, and getting spiritual and educational support. Other services include counseling in wedding and funeral organization, and much-needed daily food and clothing pantries. Carrefour’s activities are entirely volunteer-run and are open to everyone.
Care to help? Food and clothing donations are always welcome.
Carrefour Saint Stephen of Hungary Friary: 414 E 82 St at First Ave New York, NY 10028 – P: 212-861-8500 ext. 134. Email: carrefourFrancophone@hotmail.com
